The CRI-certified machines they produce have been independently tested and proven to be more effective than conventional vacuum cleaners at removing soil and containing dust and contaminants while also protecting carpet fibers and appearance.

These machines also tend to be more durable than other models and perform effectively while protecting health and the environment.

This is why I am a strong advocate of replacing older, non-certified vacuum cleaners at the end of their lifespan — which, for commercial use, is typically four to seven years — with newer, greener machines.

However, while replacing old, inefficient machines is a must, it brings up a problem: How does one dispose of those old vacuum cleaners?

It is estimated that hundreds of millions of pounds of cleaning supplies and equipment — including vacuum cleaners — end up in landfills each year.

Fortunately, there are several more sustainable and responsible ways of disposing an older machine:

Recycle Or Reuse It

Many recycling centers accept small machines and appliances, including vacuum cleaners and their parts.